KEF isn’t exactly new to the wireless game — the British brand has spent the past decade reminding everyone that great sound doesn’t need a mess of cables or a rack full of gear. After the runaway success of the LS50 Wireless, LS50 Wireless II, LSX, and LSX II, KEF is now turning its attention to something a little more compact (and possibly more attainable) with the Coda W.
Building on the legacy of its classic passive Coda models; like the Coda 7 and 9.2, the new Coda W is a refined all-in-one wireless speaker that blends KEF’s signature design, built-in amplification, and flexible wired and wireless connectivity. In typical KEF fashion, it looks sharp, promises precision, and aims to make you forget your amp ever existed.
“Our goal has always been to deliver the most authentic sound possible – the kind that forges an emotional connection. We designed the Coda W for those of us who love the ritual of vinyl – the magic of dropping a needle on a record, that moment of anticipation. With Coda W, you can get completely immersed in the depth of your records, appreciating the richness and nuance in every note, then switch to streaming a new track seamlessly. It’s about rediscovering your favourite songs like never before,” explained Grace Lo, President and Head of Global Marketing, KEF
KEF Coda W Overview
The KEF Coda W system includes two speakers, with the main unit acting as the powered hub — handling all connectivity, amplification, and signal distribution for both channels. There’s no need for an external amplifier, stereo, or home theater receiver; everything’s built in.
The secondary speaker connects to the main unit via a 3-meter interspeaker cable, and KEF smartly offers an optional 8-meter C-Link cable for those whose rooms don’t follow the “perfect setup” blueprint.
Even better, the wired connection between the two speakers supports up to 24-bit/96kHz PCM audio, which is more than enough resolution for 99% of what’s available from today’s major streaming services. It’s a thoughtful balance of audiophile performance and real-world practicality.
Uni-Q: To optimize the listening experience, each speaker includes KEF’s 12th Generation Uni-Q driver array, which combines a 25mm (1-inch) aluminum dome tweeter with a 130mm (5.25-inch) magnesium/aluminum alloy cone woofer. This setup delivers the focused imaging, clarity, and wide dispersion that have made Uni-Q a hallmark of KEF’s design philosophy.
Music Integrity Engine: This KEF feature uses advanced signal-processing algorithms to correct timing errors, ensuring the Uni-Q drivers in the Coda W deliver precise imaging and tighter sound without unwanted artifacts.
Amplification: The Coda W wireless system delivers a total power output of 200 watts, with separate amplifiers for the woofer and tweeter in each speaker, managed by precision crossovers. The system’s frequency response ranges from 41Hz to 47kHz, depending on EQ settings, ensuring balanced, full-range sound.
Pro Tip: Each speaker features a rear-mounted port to enhance low-frequency extension, delivering deeper, more impactful bass. Be mindful of the distance between the wall and the back of the cabinet, as positioning too close can affect bass performance.
Subwoofer Output: The Coda W includes a subwoofer preamp output for those looking to extend low-frequency performance — particularly useful for movie watching. Any powered subwoofer can be used, with the KEF KC62 as a space-saving option. For even greater placement flexibility, the optional KW1 wireless subwoofer adapter kit provides a clean, wireless connection, eliminating cable clutter.
Bluetooth Support: The Coda W lets you stream music wirelessly from a phone, tablet, or laptop, providing a simple pairing process and the freedom to play audio instantly. It supports Bluetooth Version 5.4 with aptX and aptX Lossless. aptX Adaptive ensures low-latency audio for seamless listening with excellent clarity and reliability, while aptX Lossless delivers CD-quality resolution up to 16-bit/44.1kHz.
Wi-Fi? Neither Wi-Fi or network (wired Ethernet) connectivity is included, which means no support for Google Cast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, or Qobuz Connect. Also, since Apple devices are not compatible with aptX, they’ll be limited to the lowest bandwidth Bluetooth quality.
KEF Coda W Physical Source Connectivity: Wired Inputs, MM Phono Preamp, and HDMI ARC
Beyond wireless streaming, the Coda W offers a wide array of wired connections for maximum flexibility. This includes HDMI ARC, Digital Optical, and USB-C inputs, allowing direct connection to TVs, CD/DVD/Blu-ray players, game consoles, and more.
- Digital Optical Audio: Supports PCM up to 24-bit/96kHz
- USB-C: Supports PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz for high-resolution computer audio
- HDMI ARC: Supports PCM up to 1.411 Mbps, making TV and home theater integration seamless
For vinyl enthusiasts, the Coda W features a dedicated MM-compatible phono input with an integrated phono preamp, allowing almost any turntable to connect directly without extra equipment. Turntables with built-in preamps can use the RCA (LINE) input, providing flexibility for all types of analog sources.
With this mix of HDMI ARC, USB-C, optical, and RCA inputs, the Coda W functions as a versatile audio hub, easily accommodating modern and legacy devices while delivering high-resolution audio across every connection.
Control Options
The Coda W features intuitive top-panel buttons for quick access to essential functions and source switching. KEF’s Connect app (iOS, Android) provides more control, including EQ settings, and access to select streaming services.
KEF Coda W Cabinet Design: Minimalist Aesthetic, Timeless Silhouette, and Five Elegant Finishes
The Coda W speakers feature a minimalist design reminiscent of KEF’s Q-Series Meta speakers, with clean, rectilinear lines and subtle detailing that create a timeless silhouette. This refined aesthetic blends vintage charm with modern sophistication, making the speakers at home in a living room, home studio, study, or reading nook.
The Coda W is available in Dark Titanium, Nickel Grey, Vintage Burgundy, Moss Green, and Midnight Blue, giving you options to match a variety of interiors while maintaining that understated elegance KEF is known for.
KEF Wireless Bookshelf Speakers Comparison
| KEF Model | Coda W | LSX II LT | LSX II | LS50 Wireless II |
| Product Type | Wireless Speaker System | Wireless Speaker System | Wireless Speaker System | Wireless Speaker System |
| Price | $999 | $999 | $1,499 | $2,999 |
| Drive units | Uni-Q Driver Array: HF: 25 mm (1 in.) aluminium dome LF/MF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) magnesium/aluminium alloy cone | Uni-Q driver array: HF: 19mm (0.75in.) aluminium dome LF/MF: 115mm (4.5in.) magnesium/aluminium alloy cone | Uni-Q driver array: HF: 19mm (0.75in.) aluminium dome LF/MF: 115mm (4.5in.) magnesium/aluminium alloy cone | Uni-Q Driver Array: HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with Metamaterial Absorption Technology LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone |
| Frequency range (-6dB) measured at 85dB/1m | 38 Hz- 20 kHz | 49 Hz – 47 kHz | 49 Hz – 47 kHz | 40 Hz – 47 kHz |
| Frequency response (±3dB) measured at 85dB/1m | 41 Hz – 20 kHz | 54 Hz – 28 kHz | 54 Hz – 28 kHz | 45 Hz – 28 kHz |
| Amplifier output power (per speaker) | LF: 70W HF: 30W | LF: 70W HF: 30W | LF: 70W HF: 30W | LF: 280W HF: 100W |
| Amplifier class (per speaker) | LF: Class D HF: Class D | LF: Class D HF: Class D | LF: Class D HF: Class D | LF: Class D HF: Class AB |
| Max SPL measured at 1m | 102 dB | 102 dB | 102 dB | 108 dB |
| Built-in WiFi | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ethernet | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AirPlay 2 | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Streaming Features | Bluetooth 5.4 aptX Adaptive™ aptX Lossless™ | Bluetooth 5.0 Google Chromecast UPnP Compatible Plays with Audirvāna | Bluetooth 5.0 Google Chromecast UPnP Compatible Roon Ready Plays with Audirvāna | Bluetooth 5.0 Google Cast UPnP Compatible Roon Ready Plays with Audirvāna |
| Source resolution | Optical up to 96kHz/24-bit USB Type-C up to 192kHz/24-bit HDMI up to 1.411 Mbps PCM | Network up to 384kHz/24-bit Optical up to 96kHz/24-bit USB Type C up to 192kHz/24-bit HDMI up to 1.411 Mbps PCM | Network up to 384kHz/24-bit Optical up to 96kHz/24-bit USB Type C up to 192kHz/24-bit HDMI up to 1.411Mbps PCM | Network up to 384kHz/24-bit Optical up to 96kHz/24-bit Coaxial up to 192kHz/24-bit HDMI up to 192kHz/24-bit |
| Interspeaker Connection | Wired: all sources resampled to 96kHz/24-bit PCM | Wired: all sources resampled to 96kHz/24-bit PCM | Wireless: all sources resampled to 48kHz/24-bit PCM Wired: all sources resampled to 96kHz/24-bit PCM | Wireless: all sources resampled to 96kHz/24-bit PCM Wired: all sources resampled to 192kHz/24-bit PCM |
| Dimensions (HWD per speaker) | 285 x 168 x 268 mm 11.2 x 6.6 x 10.55 in. | 240 × 155 × 180 mm 9.5 × 6.1 × 7.1 in. | 240 × 155 × 180 mm 9.5 × 6.1 × 7.1 in | 305 x 200 x 311 mm 12 x 7.9 x 12.2 in. |
| Weight (per set) | 11.3 kg (24.9 lbs) | 6.8kg (15.0lbs) | 7.2kg (15.6lbs) | 20.1kg (44.3lbs) |
| Power input | 100 – 240VAC 50/60Hz | 100 – 240VAC 50/60Hz | 100 – 240VAC 50/60Hz | 100 – 240VAC 50/60Hz |
| Power consumption | 200W (operating power) <0.5W (standby power) | 200W (operating power) <2.0W (standby power) | 200W (operating power) <2.0W (standby power) | 200W (operating power) <2.0W (standby power) |
| Primary speaker | Primary speaker | Primary speaker | Primary speaker | Primary speaker |
| Inputs | HDMI ARC Optical USB Type-C (audio) RCA (LINE) RCA (PHONO) | HDMI ARC Optical USB Type C (audio) RJ45 Ethernet (network) | HDMI ARC TOSLINK Optical USB Type-C Analog 3.5mm Auxiliary RJ45 Ethernet (network) | HDMI eARC Optical Digital Coaxial Analog 3.5mm Auxiliary USB Type-A (service) RJ45 Ethernet (network) |
| Output | RCA Subwoofer output USB Type-C (interspeaker) USB Type-C (5V DC) | RCA Subwoofer output USB Type-C (interspeaker) | RCA Subwoofer output RJ45 Ethernet (interspeaker) | RCA Subwoofer output RJ45 Ethernet (interspeaker) |
| Secondary Speaker | Secondary Speaker | Secondary Speaker | Secondary Speaker | Secondary Speaker |
| Input | USB Type-C (interspeaker) | USB Type-C (interspeaker) | RJ45 Ethernet (interspeaker) | USB Type-A (service) RJ45 Ethernet (interspeaker) |
| Finishes | Dark Titanium. Nickel Grey, Vintage Burgundy, Moss Green, Midnight Blue, | Sage Green, Stone White, and Graphite Grey | Carbon Black, Mineral White, Cobalt Blue, Lava Red, and Soundwave | Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, Sand Shell, and Moss Green |
| What’s In The Box | A set of Coda W Power cord Interspeaker cable (3m) Remote control Quick Start Guide Warranty and safety information | A set of LSX II LT Power cord Interspeaker cable (3m) Remote control Quick Start Guide Warranty and safety information | A set of LSX II Power cords Interspeaker cable Remote control Quick Start Guide warranty and safety information | A set of LS50 Wireless II Remote control Interspeaker Cable Power cord Quick Start Guide, Warranty |
The Bottom Line
The KEF Coda W is a thoughtful addition to KEF’s wireless speaker lineup, blending high-end compact audio technology with a minimalist, Q-META-inspired aesthetic. At $999, it matches the LSX II LT in price but opts for straight edges and a more traditional look rather than the curved, modern styling of KEF’s other compact wireless models. Technically, it packs the essentials: 12th Generation Uni-Q drivers, built-in amplification, MM phono preamp, subwoofer output, and aptX/aptX Lossless Bluetooth streaming.
Where the Coda W stands apart — and raises questions — is its lack of Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity. Unlike the LS50 Wireless II or LSX II, this system relies solely on Bluetooth for streaming, and while you can control the speakers through the KEF Connect App, the absence of a network connection and WiFi support means Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2 or Google Cast support is off the table. For vinyl lovers and those who prioritize clean, wired or Bluetooth setups, the Coda W delivers on performance and flexibility. For those who lean on networked streaming or smart-home integration, the missing Wi-Fi is a notable limitation.
Price & Availability
KEF Coda W is available for $999/pair at Crutchfield.
The Coda W can be paired with the optional SQ1 floor stands (offered in Grey or White), The stands provide a stable platform for elevated positioning and optimal listening height ($399 pair through KEF)
For more information: us.kef.com/products/coda-w
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Larry
October 21, 2025 at 9:26 am
Hi Robert,
Nice review. I think it’s important that you highlighted the lack of network connectivity, as it didn’t jump out at me in other announcements I read.
I have a couple of thoughts on that topic, as I own numerous different KEF speakers (MUO gen-1, KEF EGG, KEF EGG Duo, and a passive set of LS50 Meta). When paired with a Samsung Galaxy series phone, the powered KEF models sound fantastic using apt-X and KEF’s BT implementation. On small speakers, Hi-Res streaming isn’t all that important. (I have run the EGGs via BT and an external DAC to compare and found minimal difference.)
If someone wants to use a streaming service, then buy a WiiM Mini or WiiM Pro and connect via the optical port. The Pro will use Qobuz Connect and YT Music, where the Mini can’t. (The Mini will use Qobuz via its app and YT via BT.)
My hunch is that KEF figures that eliminating Wi-Fi will likely cut down the number of support calls substantially.
I think KEF will sell a bazillion of these new speakers. BTW, Costco has the LSX LT ii for $600 if anyone would like a set of those instead. I ordered mine in white. 🙂
Larry
Ian White
October 21, 2025 at 1:45 pm
Larry,
It jumped out to Robert and I when we were working on the article. It does seem like a strange omission considering the price. I agree that one could use a WiiM Pro (I use one with my Triangle Borea BR03 BT in my bedroom system) in this scenario for a small expenditure.
We hope to review a pair soon. KEF’s been slow of late getting out products.
IW
Larry
October 21, 2025 at 2:46 pm
Hi Ian,
I forgot to mention that with a USB-C port, the easiest and cheapest streaming front end is your phone, or better yet, the old phone you no longer use that was worth $5 as a trade-in.
I’ll bet they dropped Wi-Fi/Ethernet due to cost, space, or RF considerations. In a tight space, my hunch is it was for RF.
For $999, this is comparable to a pair of on-sale Q1 Meta and one of the WiiM Amps.
I look forward to reading your review. I’m certain it will be a good read.
Larry
David
October 21, 2025 at 2:55 pm
Robert or Ian,
Regarding the promotional photo showing a desktop setup. Is anyone actually using speakers this large on such a small desk top? It seems ridiculous from a practicality and aesthetic perspective and the audio performance must surely be hampered by the speaker placement. I once had to temporarily place my 6.5 inch stand mount speakers atop my a/v stand. This placed the speakers about 30 inches apart. What emanated my beloved Energy c-3 monitors could only be described as a hot mess.
David
Ian White
October 21, 2025 at 3:49 pm
David,
Expecting PR people or the marketing department to figure that out as we all know that might be a rather big ask — not very likely.
That being said — some of us have rather large desktops where larger monitors can work.
IW
David
October 21, 2025 at 4:04 pm
I will add these are quite aesthetically appealing and seem a decent value for a KEF powered speaker set.
Robert Silva
October 22, 2025 at 1:45 am
Thanks for all the great comments – and yes – At first I thought the lack of Wi-Fi was just press release oversight – but it wasn’t.